I have been avidly watching international sports for many years, and the upcoming World Cup has always been one of the most anticipated events in my calendar. However, recent events and the growing uncertainty surrounding safety in the United States have left me deeply concerned about the wellbeing of the players, supporters, and all involved in the tournament.

The U.S. is witnessing events the most recent involving an ICE agent in Minnesota which concern me.Safety and security are paramount in ensuring the success of such a global event, and current conditions may not guarantee the necessary protection for tens of thousands of people who will gather for the World Cup.

Beyond the latest events we have incidents in Venezuela and the threats to Greenland, the political climate is increasingly volatile, with extreme polarization and frequent protests that sometimes escalate to violence. The potential for disruption during a global event of this magnitude is concerning, to say the least. The world comes together for the World Cup—a celebration of unity, peace, and the love of the game. Hosting it under such precarious conditions undermines these values.

However, moving the World Cup to a country with a more stable and secure environment can bring its challenges, it also offers hope and assurance that safety precautions can be better managed. Nations with robust and reliable security frameworks, and a proven track record of hosting large-scale events without incident, would be more suitable at this time.

We owe it to the players to give them a stage where their performance, not their safety, is their primary concern. We owe it to the supporters to ensure they can attend the matches without fear. And we owe it to the spirit of sportsmanship to hold this prestigious event in a venue where it can thrive without interruption.

Join me in urging sports governing bodies and the organizing committee to reconsider the U.S. as the host nation. To protect the safety and spirit of the World Cup, sign this petition to advocate for moving the tournament to a safer location.